Lynch’s agent Doug Hendrickson has been given the ‘go ahead’ to work a new deal. The five-time Pro Bowler previously signed a three-year, $31 million deal with Seattle ahead of the 2015 season. A new agreement would ultimately eliminate Lynch’s $9 million salary cap charge from the salary cap this year.

Earlier this month, the Seahawks cleared Lynch, 31, to engage in talks with the Raiders. He later visited the team’s facility in Alameda, California, further igniting rumors that he could make a comeback to play in his hometown.

As Rapoport noted, the process for Lynch to un-retire is actually a lengthy one if he is not traded. Per NFL rules, Lynch would first be required to pen a letter to the league asking to return to action.

However, if traded, Lynch would be immediately clear to head to the Raiders and be ready for play.

Per @NFL rules, if retired RB Marshawn Lynch is traded, he does not have to file a letter un-retiring. It would be a clean return to play.

While Lynch has not vocalized his intent to un-retire and join the Raiders, Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll addressed the possibility that Lynch could make a return at the NFL annual meetings.

“I know that he’s somewhat entertaining the thought of it,” Carroll said. “I can’t tell you how strong it is. You’ve got to talk to him, and that chance ain’t happening.”

In Lynch’s nine seasons in the NFL, he rushed for 9,112 yards and 74 touchdowns. He was also selected to the Pro Bowl five times and helped lead Seattle to its first Super Bowl victory after the 2013 season.

While the reports don’t look good for Seahawks fans, there are still hurdles to clear. Hold on tight.